What would you suggest as a decent machine ? That's a big deep rabbit hole to go down considering that a decent grinder is also required and then there are all the accessories. A friend wants to buy her husband a 'decent' machine for his 50th and is considering the Rancilo Silvia (5 or 6), but didn't realise that he will still need a tamper (for the V5) and then should probably get a mat and then maybe a knock box and then possibly a frothing jug (or two). He likes his coffee, so would quite quickly realise that shop ground coffee isn't that great, so a grinder would have to be bought. I geeked out and did an intro barista course, and then had to get a scale/timer and measuring cup. Its a bit like buying a bike, and then realising that you still need pedals, shoes, helmet and shorts. And then gloves, glasses and a jersey. And then you want a cycling computer, which becomes a Garmin etc
